As winter sets in, the beach towns of the Crystal Coast reveal a serene charm that feels like a hidden treasure. From the historic allure of Beaufort to the tranquil shores of Emerald Isle, Swansboro’s welcoming warmth, Atlantic Beach’s classic seaside atmosphere, and Morehead City’s lively harbor, each community offers its unique history, natural landscapes, and winter activities.
This season, escape to these coastal gems where the sea breeze invites you to unwind and every town has its own story to share. Here’s why the Crystal Coast deserves a spot on your winter travel wish list.
1. Emerald Isle
Nestled at the western tip of Bogue Banks, Emerald Isle, North Carolina, offers the perfect blend of natural serenity and coastal adventure. With the Atlantic Ocean to one side and the calm waters of Bogue Sound to the other, Emerald Isle’s winters are quiet and charming. Beaches transform into your private escape. Picture early morning strolls along the shoreline or afternoons surf fishing, all set against the breathtaking coastal views.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Emerald Isle brims with activities and local parks. Explore the scenic trails at Emerald Woods Park by foot or bike, or challenge your skills on the disc golf course, which meanders through a picturesque maritime forest and ends at the stunning Bogue Sound shoreline. Families will adore the Senator Jean Preston Memorial Park, where kids can play to their hearts’ content while you relax near the adjacent public boat ramp, soaking in views of the water after a day of boating.
Winter is also an excellent time for shelling and beachcombing, with the tide washing up unique treasures perfect for vacation keepsakes or festive holiday décor. For those who enjoy bird watching, Emerald Isle is a haven. Bird lovers will revel in spotting migratory species that call the Crystal Coast home during the cooler months, all while surrounded by the unmatched beauty of this coastal paradise.
Emerald Isle also boasts one of the largest selections of vacation rentals anywhere on the Crystal Coast. Emerald Isle Realty offers a long list of vacation rental properties to choose from. From charming beach cottages to luxury Sandcastle homes and inviting condos, every vacation rental boasts amenities desired by any traveler. Emerald Isle’s central location and inviting atmosphere to make it the ultimate winter destination for relaxation, adventure, and everything in between!
2. Beaufort
Named “America’s Favorite Town” by Travel + Leisure and celebrated as North Carolina’s third-oldest town, Beaufort is a place where history comes alive, coastal charm welcomes you, and vibrant culture greets you at every turn. Its picturesque waterfront downtown is a favorite among visitors and locals alike, packed with historic landmarks, boutique shops, fine dining, and cozy cafés. End your day with a stroll along the Beaufort boardwalk, where the sunset paints the perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening.
Explore Beaufort’s rich history and vibrant personality on a walking or biking tour. Whether you’re drawn to its fascinating past, stunning architecture, or the settings that inspired New York Times best-selling author Nicholas Sparks, you’ll find various routes to experience this coastal community’s charm.
A visit to the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort unveils the town’s fascinating maritime history. Discover treasures from the Civil War, artifacts from Blackbeard’s historic flagship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge, and engage in unique programs and workshops. For more historical insights, be sure to visit the Beaufort Historic Site. Beautifully preserved homes and landmarks will transport you back to the 18th and 19th centuries, telling the tale of North Carolina’s coastal region.
For families looking for adventure, set sail on a swashbuckling journey with Beaufort Pirates Revenge cruises and boat tours. Climb aboard the Revenge, a 40-foot pirate ship, and join the crew for sword fights, festive music, and water cannon battles on the high seas—a fun-filled experience for buccaneers of all ages.
Located just a mile and a half from Beaufort, you’ll find Shackleford Banks, a coastal gem that’s home to wild Banker horses that roam this pristine barrier island. Take a boat or ferry from Beaufort to catch a glimpse of the magnificent wild horses or explore the natural beauty of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse and National Seashore, one of the region’s best spots for shelling.
3. Atlantic Beach
One of the smaller communities on the Crystal Coast, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Sound, is Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. The Atlantic Beach Boardwalk is a great place to take a stroll any time of the day for fantastic ocean views. Stop at one of the eateries that line the boardwalk while the kids have fun at one of the playgrounds.
Atlantic Beach is home to not only beautiful beaches but it’s also the home of one of the most visited national parks, Fort Macon State Park. The park is filled with history dating back to the 18th century and regularly hosts tours and demonstrations throughout the winter to entertain locals and visitors alike. The park’s centerpiece, Fort Macon, is a meticulously restored Civil War-era fort that has played a pivotal role in American history. Visitors can explore the fort’s sturdy brick walls, underground chambers, and expansive parade ground, learning about its strategic importance during conflicts like the Civil War and World War II.
For family fun, head to the Atlantic Beach Skate Park, the region’s only skatepark and one of the largest in Eastern North Carolina. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll down the Oceanana Pier—a favorite spot for fishing—or simply relax with your favorite beverage at the pier’s bar, nearly a thousand feet offshore. Fishing enthusiasts can also book one of the many local fishing charters for a memorable day on the waters of the Crystal Coast.
For a different kind of adventure, visit the Atlantic Station Shopping Center, where you can catch a movie at the Atlantic Station Cinema. It’s a great way to wind down after a day at the beach, complete with popcorn and family laughs. Before heading into the theater, take a moment to explore the Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail, accessible right from the shopping center’s parking lot. This peaceful trail winds through maritime forests and wetlands, offering a chance to spot native wildlife and connect with the natural beauty of the area.
4. Morehead City
Located along the picturesque harbor channel, Morehead City is the largest beach town on the Crystal Coast. Its bustling waterfront offers stunning water views, where boats of all kinds drift by, creating a lively maritime scene. From rich history and fresh local seafood to unique shopping and family-friendly attractions, Morehead City is a destination overflowing with coastal charm and unforgettable experiences.
The dining scene in Morehead City is hard to beat any time of year, and the winter months are no different. The town has a long history in the fishing industry, which means fresh local seafood can be found in abundance.
Explore the area’s maritime history on display at the History Museum of Carteret County, also known as the History Place. Admire a treasure trove of artifacts and a series of exhibits from centuries past. The History Place also doubles as a research library with more than 10,000 books and publications filled with the Crystal Coast’s rich history.
Morehead City is one of the best destinations along the Crystal Coast to do a little shopping. With everything from antique and thrift shops to big box stores and shopping plazas, it’s the perfect place to find something to take home for everyone in the family.
5. Swansboro
Tucked between the serene waters of the White Oak River and the Intracoastal Waterway, Swansboro is a waterfront treasure known for its motto, “The Friendly City by the Sea.” This charming coastal town invites you to experience its Southern hospitality and rich history as you stroll along the historic Swansboro waterfront. Watch fishermen and boaters glide across the water, and soak in breathtaking views of the Intracoastal. Wander through well-preserved homes and landmarks that tell the story of Swansboro’s vibrant past.
The town’s waterfront is lined with boutique stores, art galleries, and antique shops, each filled with maritime-inspired treasures. Find the perfect souvenir to share with loved ones—or a keepsake to remind you of your time in this enchanting destination.
When it’s time to dine, Swansboro truly shines. From fine dining to family restaurants, tempt your tastebuds at any one of the amazing restaurants in the area, many of which are located along the waterfront. From steaks to fresh local seafood to just about everything in between, you’ll find whatever you crave at Swansboro restaurants.
For nature lovers, Swansboro is the gateway to Hammocks Beach State Park, a haven of unspoiled beauty with 290 acres to explore. The area is largely undisturbed and consumed mostly by Bear Island, a 4-mile-long stretch of undeveloped barrier island accessible only by the park’s passenger ferry, private ferry or by paddling your kayak or canoe. Paddle through scenic marshes, uncover the wildlife-rich beauty of Huggins Island, and explore maritime forests that are truly sights to behold.
Discover your Winter Escape
The best North Carolina beach towns are calling this winter! From historic treasures and family-friendly attractions to peaceful beach strolls and fresh seafood feasts, the Crystal Coast offers something special every season.
Let Emerald Isle Realty help you experience the best of these beach towns. From coastal cottages to spacious oceanfront rentals, we’ll find the perfect home for your getaway. Book your escape to Emerald Isle this winter and let the charm of the Crystal Coast create unforgettable memories. Call us at (855) 891-1962 to start planning your getaway.
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